Depression is a mental disorder that impacts almost every area of life. Individuals who suffer from depression may feel the impact on biological, psychological and social levels. "The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" describes depression as having a "depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day, markedly diminished interest in activities, and feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt." Major depression may also include cognitive and physical changes such as an inability to concentrate or weight gain. The disorder is sometimes, but not always, accompanied by suicidal thoughts. Given the serious nature of depression, scientists are constantly examining natural substances such as magnesium asporotate as preventative options.
What is Magnesium Asporotate?
Magnesium asporotate is a mixture of different forms of the mineral magnesium. The compound contains three forms of magnesium: asparatate, citrate and orotate. Magnesium itself plays an important role in a variety of bodily functions. It works to activate vitamin B and create energy through ATP cycles. It also contributes to the development of bones, proteins and essential fatty acids at the cellular level. Some research suggests that magnesium can treat attention and fatigue-related disorders; however, the mineral is not FDA approved for such uses. Too much magnesium, however, may lead to other health conditions involving the cardiac and muscular systems.
Magnesium and Depression
In 2008 researchers in Poland studied the impact of zinc and magnesium in the treatment of depression. They were interested in how the minerals themselves play a role in depression and also if supplements would enhance antidepressant medications. Their study involved treating various groups of rats with and without the minerals and typical medications used to treat depression, and then observing behaviors. The results, which were published in the journal "Pharmacological Reports," suggest that zinc and magnesium both provide antidepressant effects and enhance medication already ingested.
Uses of Magnesium for Mood
Given the growing body of clinical research linking magnesium and depression, in 2010 researchers in Texas published an analysis in the journal of "Medication Hypotheses." Their study reviewed work involving the treatment of depressed patients, especially those with treatment resistant depression, using various forms of magnesium. Their analysis cited studies as early the 1920s showing that magnesium has antidepressant affects in humans. The authors discuss that biochemically, individuals with deficient magnesium are vulnerable to depression. Overall, the researchers hypothesize that magnesium may have as powerful results as typical antidepressants.
Putting it All Together
Currently, neither clinical research or the FDA has concluded that magnesium can effectively treat depression. There is also no conclusive data supporting the idea that magnesium asporotate supplements have preventative power; however, magnesium does have some health benefits that individuals may explore with a physician. Before adding any supplement to your treatment regimen, talk to your doctor.
References
- "The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition"; The American Psychiatric Association; 1994
- "Pharmacological Reports"; Antidepressant Activity of Zinc and Magnesium in View of the Current Hypotheses of Antidepressant Action; B. Szewczyk, et al; 2008
- "Medication Hypotheses"; Magnesium for Treatment-resistant Depression: A Review and Hypothesis; G.A. Eby and K.L. Eby; 2010
